Premna L. (Lamiaceae) in Southeast Asia

The Lamiaceae (Mint Family) are of major ecological and economic importance in South East Asia. They comprise of a number of major (Tectona) and minor (Gmelina, Teijsmanniodendron and Vitex) timber groups, it is important horticulturally (Clerodendrum and close relatives), culinary (Mentha and Ocimum) and medicinally (Vitex). The family is very complex with many species rich genera, some of which have undergone major nomenclatorial changes in the last 10 to 20 years. In this book a revision of the Lamiaceae genus Premna is presented for the Flora Malesiana region. A key, descriptions, notes on ecology, distribution, local uses and names and conservation status are given for all 14 species occurring in the area. Notes on the ecology and habit of Premna herbacea are presented, which is similar to the well-known ¿pyro-herbs¿ Clerodendrum tatei and C. linifolia. Making P. herbacea the first recognised pyro-herb native to Southeast Asia.